June 14, 2018

What does it take to become a #ForeverDragon? Beyond the classes, co-ops and research, there are a few things that are quintessentially Drexel. Before you head off on your next adventure, check a few of these last-minute experiences off your list!

1. Take a picture with Mario.

Few things are more symbolic of Drexel than our beloved mascot. You won’t want to miss snapping a pic with Mario the Magnificent — either the Instagram-favorite bronze statue, or the bluer, fluffier version you just might find at sporting events or hanging out on campus.

2. Rub the toe of “The Water Boy.”

Legend has it that rubbing the toe of “The Water Boy” sculpture in Main Building will bring good fortune on examinations. We have a feeling that it might bring good vibes whenever you need them, too.

3. Learn the Drexel Ode/Fight Song.

Drexel is an institution with a rich history, and the blue and gold runs deep. Follow in the footsteps of Dragons of years past and learn the Drexel Ode (dating back to the 19th century) and the Drexel Fight Song (dating back to 1938).

4. Run up the Art Museum steps.

If you didn’t take a momentous slow-mo jog up the “Rocky steps,” did you even go to school in Philly? Go ahead and play tourist for a moment; we won’t tell.

5. Get a top-level view of the DNA staircase in PISB.

From nearly anywhere, the spiral staircase in the Papadakis Integrated Sciences Building shares a striking resemblance to DNA. However, the most mesmerizing view may just be from the top. Acrophobia sufferers beware.

6. Get lost in Main/Curtis/Randell.

There was a time when Main Building, Curtis Hall and Randell Hall were separate, independent entities. That time has passed. It’s kind of a rite of passage to find yourself turned around somewhere in the maze-like building, so hurry up and get lost.

7. Eat the stuffed French toast at Sabrina’s.

Let’s be honest: You could order almost anything on the menu at Sabrina’s and leave with a full, happy belly. But there is something special (and sweet) about the Stuffed Challah French Toast at the University City favorite.

8. Play pool at Ross Commons.

Few students wrap up their first year at Drexel without playing a round of billiards, or catching a game on TV, at Ross Commons. Upperclassmen can relive the memories and enjoy some downtime in the Victorian Gothic-style building (which dates back to 1888!).

9. Hang out at Buckley Green.

Fun and friends are never far behind at Drexel’s volleyball courts, complete with spectator seating and a BBQ grill. Stretch out and catch some rays with the sand between your toes, or gather a group to take on the prevailing court champs (if you dare).

10. Eat the Cap’n Crunch burrito at Cucina Zapata.

A little sweet, complex and satisfyingly crunchy — the Cap’n Crunch Tilapia Burrito from food truck Cucina Zapata is better tasted than described.

11. Meet the therapy dogs.

Drexel’s favorite Cane Corso therapy dogs are making the rounds on campus this week. Not yet on a first name basis with Chai and Espresso? You can track them down on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat.

12. Check out a pop-up garden.

Numerous gardens spring up around the city each year courtesy of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. This year, one of the city’s favorite ways to spend a summer evening is right on campus! Dig into some Tex Mex fare at the uCity Square location at 36th and Filbert, which PHS describes as a “whimsical urban orchard.”

13. Watch the sunrise over the skyline.

You may have pulled your share of all-nighters, but the skyline views at sunrise are worth losing a few more hours of shut eye. Might we recommend the view from the South Street Bridge? It’s always pretty dreamy, and the perfect spot for self-reflection or a selfie.

14. Admire the view from Cira Green.

Jump on a new tradition and check out Cira Green, the city’s first elevated public park and one of the best, not-so-secret locales for a city view. Located 95-feet above street level, the park is open to the public from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week during summer months.

15. Rent bikes or do yoga by the Schuylkill.

Join the herd of bikers, walkers and runners on the Schuylkill River Trail to stretch your muscles after challenging your mind. From renting bikes near Boat House Row to joining a donation-based yoga class, there is no shortage of activities to get you out and moving.

16. Visit the Academy of Natural Sciences.

What’s better than attending a university with the #2 “most amazing higher ed natural history museum” in the country? Getting in for free! Take advantage of your DragonCard student privileges (while you can) at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University.

17. Take a jumping photo in Drexel park.

There’s no better time than graduation to perfect a mid-air jumping photo, and there’s no better place than Drexel Park. You may have to dodge a few Frisbees and frolicking dogs, but the amazing view will make for the perfect photo backdrop.

18. Register with the Alumni Association.

Stay connected to your alma mater by swapping info with the Alumni Online Community. The resource features a job board, events, class notes, ways to connect with your fellow alumni and more — exclusive to Drexel grads!

19. Buy Drexel alumni swag.

You’re a #ForeverDragon, so wear it with pride! After making it through co-ops, exams, jobs and the hectic quarter system, you deserve to sport an alumni hat or sweatshirt from the bookstore.

20. Thank your Drexel friends and mentors.

No Dragon makes it to the finish line alone. You had professors, supervisors and friends who saw the best in you, pushed you to be great and helped you grow. Send them a note of thanks to create connections that will last long after graduation.

Last step? Make sure you are ready for Commencement and celebrate! You did it!